Asheville-area Halloween races coming up

The Western North Carolina mountains are overflowing with sumptuous fall color this weekend, as well as fall 5K races. You can't blame the race directors - fall is the absolute perfect time for running - not too hot, not too cold, crisp, clear, and beautiful.

Among the many offerings in the coming weeks are the Halloween-themed footraces. Here are a couple you'll want to run, so get the Batman costume ready:

Runners take part in a past Superhero 5K. The eighth annual race is Nov. 1 in Asheville.(Photo: John Coutlakis)

Transylvania's Flight of the Vampire 5K, 10K Run/Walk and Fun Run:

The 32nd annual race hosted by Brevard Rotary Club starts at 8 a.m. this Saturday, Oct. 25 at Brevard College. The race consists of a 1K, 5K and 10K. Followed by All Day Hometown Mountain Festival. Entry fees vary by age and race distanace.

All active military members run free. Register at www.active.com. For more information, visit www.brevardrotary.org.

Superhero 5K:

The eighth annual race starts at 4:30 p.m. Nov. 1 at Asheville Brewing Co.'s new venue, The Mill Room, at 66 Asheland Ave., in downtown Asheville. The race director will walk runners to the start line on Hilliard Avenue.

Postrace party with pizza and beer. Entry fee is $30 through midnight Oct. 30 at www.imathlete.com, $35 on race day.

Costumes are encouraged for all races! Just remember to leave room to see and to breathe!